Then Shen Temple

Why did the first Chinese immigrants build Then Shen Temple? They arrived at Telok Ayer Basin’s shore. They wanted to thank Mazu Goddess of Seas for a safe journey. A small shrine stood there. As more immigrants came a permanent temple was needed. Then Shen Temple also known as Thian Hock Keng Palace of Heavenly Happiness began in 1839. It was completed three years later. Building materials were imported from China. Artisans from Fujian Province crafted intricate carvings and decorations. Wealthy Hokkien businessmen donated 30000 Spanish dollars. Tan Tock Seng gave 3000 dollars the largest contribution. The temple wasn’t just for Hokkiens. It was intended for all tangren Chinese people from all dialect groups. Mazu’s statue arrived from China in 1840. It’s the temple’s chief deity. Other deities include Baosheng Dadi God of Medicine and Health Guansheng Dijun for spiritual protection Confucius and the Goddess of Mercy. These deities reflect early Chinese immigrants’ desires. In 1840 Hokkien Huay Kuan Hokkien Association was established within Then Shen Temple. The association promoted education and helped new immigrants. Today it still contributes to society. Then Shen Temple follows traditional Hokkien architecture. Curved roof ridges have upturned swallow tail ends. Four dancing dragons symbolize justice and power. A blazing pearl represents immortality and perfection. Decorative elements were created using jian nian cut and paste. Colorful ceramics were cut and pasted to create mosaics. Then Shen Temple has a three-hall layout. There’s an entrance hall a main hall and a rear hall. Side halls flank the prayer halls. A plaque with calligraphy from Emperor Guangxu of Qing China hangs in the main hall. It says gentle waves on the southern seas. Chongwen Ge Institute for the Veneration of Literature was beside Then Shen Temple. It was Singapore’s first Chinese school. Tan Kim Seng built it in 1849. Hakka and Teochew communities contributed. Chongwen Ge included a pagoda and gate. Chong Hock Pavilion was added in 1913. Hokkien Huay Kuan moved there in 1915. Chong Hock Girls’ School one of Singapore’s earliest girls’ schools was also established. Then Shen Temple remains a place of worship for Buddhists and Taoists. Between 1998 and 2000 it underwent major restoration. It received an honorable mention in the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage 2001 Awards. Then Shen Temple and Chongwen Ge are a National Monument. Then Shen Temple stands as a testament to the community spirit and faith of early Chinese immigrants. It’s a beautiful and significant place in Singapore’s history.